BAME graduates still being hired at a slower rate

Progress on workplace inclusivity has been accused of little to no progress as BAME graduates are consistently applying for more jobs than their white counterparts.

Black students are applying for 38% more jobs than white students, according to research by career service Debut Careers.

The research also found that Asian students are applying for 26% more jobs than white students, while other ethnic groups are applying to 21% more.

Compared to previous research from Debut, it seems little progress has been made.

In 2020, the career service company published a report that found BAME students were applying for 45% more jobs than their white counterparts.

Kim Connor Streich, marketing director, Debut suggested the pandemic has had an effect on possible progress towards more inclusive workplaces.

She said: “The pandemic has seen people from different BAME communities hit the hardest, and with that will come worry and a desire to firm up future prospects.

“Couple this with a potential feeling that you need to be proactive and apply for more jobs to tackle bias and you can see why many may be applying for more jobs.”


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Hiring BAME graduates at a slower rate than white graduates has hindered progression on inclusive workplaces.

Avantika Vaishnav, marketing manager at Debut, said that creating diversity in the workplace creates an inclusive environment, which is vital for maximising productivity and overall business success.

She told HR magazine: “By giving graduates opportunities from all backgrounds, employers are bringing in a variety of different skills and perspectives.

“This will not only improve innovation and creativity, but positively impact company reputation, hiring results and employee retention.”

Vaishnav said that to drive diversity, businesses need to hire inclusively.

“Employers should highlight this commitment in job descriptions, promote ads on diverse job boards and blind screen applications,” she advised.

“Employers must be willing to acknowledge and honour everyone and this can start by introducing simplest policies; Start by focusing on holidays and celebrations and work from there.

"Focus on age, gender, sexual orientation, cultural backgrounds and country of origin. Be willing to talk openly to your employees or employers and begin a conversation about inclusivity and diversity.”